Race, class, gender, ethnicity, nationalism and sexuality are probably only a few ways in which our intellectual interests, personal histories and political passions intersect with course materials. Activism and intellectual work reinforce each other, and passion can keep us energized about our work when we are tired or discouraged. At the same time, as scholars we must try to maintain a classroom atmosphere where we listen, and are able to respond freely, to ideas. When we make, defend or refute an argument, we must do so in a way that does not call the reputation of another into question. Please be mindful of the following guidelines:

We will come to class prepared. Political conviction and personal experiences may enhance, but do not substitute for, having read the texts and prepared arguments to advance in class.

We will treat each other’s opinions and comments courteously and without condescension. We will assume that all disagreement has merit, and work to persuade rather than to silence others.

We will treat the authors we read with respect, grounding agreements and disagreements in reasoned argument about their work, not assumptions we make about who they are.

We will show good manners in our behavior. Coming late, leaving early, talking privately with neighbors, refusing to speak and departing during discussions are signs of disrespect.

We will try to be forthcoming about matters of identity that need to be respected and do our best to respect personal identifications that have been pointed out to us. We will assume that errors in identification made by others – for example, misidentification of gender, race, sexuality, class, national status – are unintentional. Correction should be made gently, and remembered; extended discussions about misidentification shall be held outside class, with the instructor if necessary.

We will use caution in our use of e-mail, and have difficult conversations in person. We will not make personal attacks over e-mail, or circulate private correspondence without the permission of both parties.

All of the things listed above are taken for granted in relationships among mature scholars, and when neglected, can breach civility and colleagueship. It is a condition of remaining in this class that everyone be mindful of maintaining a classroom atmosphere in which ideas can be exchanged in the most productive way possible.

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